About Being A Chaplain

During this course with Rev. Daniel Moore, I impressed by the way Rev. Moore showed  the areas of chaplaincy and ministering to the public in a variety of different services.  Being somewhat familiar with most, the detail of the ministries and qualifications were quite overwhelming.  I began to think and do some soul searching as to an avenue for me to pursue.  At first I felt this is probably a career I will not be able to achieve, at least not on the ULC path.  Then with more contemplation, I realized it’s what I make it.  I have no grand plans, it is just me.

My Universal Life Church ministry will be spiritual guidance and listening to whoever crosses my path at any given time or place.  I presently work at a hospital and the opportunity to talk with the patients is ever present.  I look at all meetings as a chance to spread a word or two of encouragement and listen to the individuals’ ‘story’, we all have a story to tell, it is our story and we each want it to recognized, which brings up the next idea of listening skills.

As we listen to someone speak, who goes on and on, our attention span can sometimes get taxed.  Staying focused, really listening and watching them with good eye contact is essential when giving ministry to a soul in their time of trouble.  Realizing that what is significant to them might seem irrelevant to your personal issues at the time can be a task all in its self.  This falls under the idea of service to all.  We need to have the willingness to serve, without being dictatorial and always humble.  Having our eyes to the heavens and at the same time our feet planted in the physical world.

 I love talking with the elderly.  There is so much wisdom behind their words.  This is a zone that I am comfortable with.  My ideal position would be serving in a nursing home or extended care facility.  Offering what I could in the way of prayers and if the person was at ease with their pending death to help with the transition.  There are many thoughts that a person who is closing in on the final years or months of life, would like to express and I would relish the opportunity to give them the ear to listen to what thoughts they would have.  At times it can be more comfortable to communicate with a minister than a family member.  The emotional attachment is not as predominate.  I cannot think of a greater way to be of service to someone.  Through working at the hospital, frequent occasions have risen when I am dealing with a comatose patient and I communicate with them on a soul level.  Letting them know it is alright to be scared and that God’s will be done.

Thank you, Rev. Moore, for your presentation.  The ULC course was well thought out and complete in every aspect.  I was given the time and opportunity to look at myself for the strengths and weakness I have that will make me a great representative of God’s love and His work here on earth.  This is a path I will (and AM) enjoying.  I have gained personal satisfactions, which is all I can ask for.  Now, it is time to put it all together and move forward into service of the Lord and Jesus. --Constance J. Hitts

The Universal Life Church Seminary is a great place to become ordained for free and for life and you can go through a comprehensive seminary and chaplaincy program.